GUT (굿): A Korean Spiritual Rite of Gratitude, Harmony, and Blessing for All

Korean Cultural Center New York presents GUT on November 21 and 22 — a traditional Korean shamanistic ritual performance that embodies the purest form of Korea’s total art, combining music, dance, and spiritual expression. As one of Korea’s Intangible Cultural Heritages, Cheolmuri-GUT bridges art and life, humanity and divinity, offering audiences a profound encounter with Korea’s centuries-old spiritual tradition. Admission is free, pre-registration required.

Cheolmuri-GUT stands as an expression of gratitude for the warm support of New Yorkers, a celebration of harmony shared among diverse communities, and a collective blessing for peace and prosperity in the years ahead.

Led by master Park Jeongwook, one of the foremost contemporary practitioners of Cheolmuri-GUT and a recognized preserver of Korea’s intangible cultural heritage, the performance carries deep authenticity and spiritual resonance.

GUT also marks the inaugural production of the KCCNY’s new signature performing arts series “KCCNY Curates,” and serves as the finale of the special exhibition commemorating the 80th anniversary of Korea’s liberation “Nam June Paik: The Communicator.” As artist Nam June Paik said, “Our soul is Gut.” Far beyond a staged performance, it represents a living art — where music, dance, and spirit converge in a shared act of healing and connection.

Through this performance, GUT, the Korean Cultural Center New York invites everyone to come together in gratitude and unity, embracing one another in a shared wish for peace and mutual understanding.

◆ PROGRAM

Selected Ritual Segments from Cheolmuri-GUT
1. Ilwol Seongshin-maji (일월성신맞이)
Honoring the celestial deities of the sun and moon, praying for peace and well-being.

1. Sangsan-maji (상산맞이(본향))
   Invoking the guardian spirits of one’s homeland and ancestors for harmony and family safety.

2. Chilseong Jaeseok-geori (칠성재석거리)
   Praying to the Northern Dipper deity for longevity, prosperity, and blessings.

3. Sodaegam-nori (소대감놀이)
   A humorous rite led by the vegetarian deity Sodaegam, wishing for abundance and wealth.

4. Jangsu-geori (장수거리)
   Celebrating a heroic general spirit, symbolizing prayers for victory and success in life.

5. Bisoo, Changgeom, Jakdu-geori (비수·창검·작두거리)
   A powerful rite to dispel misfortune and restore peace through sacred blades.

6. Josang-geori (조상거리)
   Honoring ancestral spirits and wishing for their peace and descendants’ longevity.

7. Dwit-geori (뒷거리)
   A concluding rite to console wandering souls and bring the ritual to a harmonious close.

◆ About Korea Seodosori Music Research & Preserve, Incorporated Association

The Korea Seodosori Music Research & Preserve, Incorporated Association is a non-profit organization established in 2001 to research and preserve Seodosori, the traditional vocal music of Korea’s northwestern region. The Association aims to ensure the proper succession and development of traditional culture while expanding its presence on the global stage.

Its activities encompass academic seminars, educational programs, international cultural exchanges, stage performances, and community outreach. The Association also operates affiliated institutions, including the Korea Traditional Culture Center “Garyeheon,” the Seodosori Traditional Arts Academy “Giseong Yehak,” and the Park Jeongwook Research Institute for Traditional Rites and Ceremonies.

◆ About “KCCNY Curates”

KCCNY Curates is the flagship performance series of the Korean Cultural Center New York, dedicated to showcasing the most distinctive and innovative works of Korean performing arts at the heart of New York City. Launched in conjunction with KCCNY’s newly opened theater, the series embodies KCCNY’s curatorial vision—introducing exceptional productions that combine artistic excellence and creative exploration.

Featuring distinguished Korean artists and groundbreaking works across genres, KCCNY Curates offers New York audiences the most compelling opportunities to experience the dynamic spirit of Korea’s performing arts scene. It aims to become KCCNY’s signature brand—recognized as a “must-see” destination for world-class Korean performing arts in New York.